§17C-14-5. Passengers in seat with operator; penalty.

(a) No more than three persons including the operator shall ride or be permitted by such operator to ride in the seat with the operator of any motor vehicle while said motor vehicle is being operated on the streets or highways of this state: Provided, That the limitation of this section shall not apply to a truck cab or truck crew compartment properly designed for the occupancy of four persons including the operator, and so designated on the registration card by the Division of Motor Vehicles.

(b) Any person violating the provisions of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be fined not more than $100; upon a second conviction within one year thereafter, shall be fined not more than $200; and upon a third or subsequent conviction, shall be fined not more than $500.